Division Chief (Litigation)

Job Posting Open Until Filled

Salary Range: $117,999 - $190,026 

Hiring Department: Law

General Description 

The role of Division Chief involves overseeing the legal operations of the Division, ensuring compliance with laws, regulations, and best litigation practices, and providing legal advice representation, and counsel. Key responsibilities include: managing legal affairs; assisting with directing all aspects of the Division's legal activities and ensuring compliance with current laws; advising on legal issues, and managing compliance and risk mitigation; handling litigation matters from inception to resolution; mentoring and training subordinate attorneys in legal research, writing, and case management; and working closely with other departments and agencies to ensure a unified approach to legal matters.

This position is responsible for: defending civil actions; supervising, managing, guiding, and motivating a staff of attorneys; reviewing and assigning work; developing litigation and case management strategies; managing outside counsel; establishing operating policies, organizational strategy, and internal operating procedures, policies, and controls to achieve maximum efficiency and goals and objectives of the Division; building relationships within the Department of Law and with City of Atlanta departments; and managing organizational budget, particularly with respect to how litigation outcomes impact budgets. The Division Chief will also manage their own caseload and handle active litigation matters as necessary. 

The Division Chief also plans for the long-term talent needs of the Litigation Division and identifies needs for coaching, training, and development. Must have exceptional research and legal writing skills; have the ability to deliver presentations to various internal audiences regarding cases, litigation trends, and make recommendations on case strategy and other complex litigation matters. Must also have excellent problem-solving skills and be able to monitor legal service delivery and maintain quality control.

Minimum Qualifications 

Education and Experience: Juris Doctorate degree required. Must be a member of good standing with the State Bar of Georgia. Must have ten (10) plus years of litigation experience and have progressive responsibility managing people and workflow.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in municipal, county, and/or constitutional law, particularly defensive litigation experience, and significant first or second chair trial experience. Knowledge of state and federal legal principles, practices, and procedures regarding the court systems

Work Schedule

This position follows the City’s hybrid work schedule policy as assigned by the Department of Human Resources Commissioner and requires in-person work at City worksites/facilities at least four (4) days per week, with the option to work remotely one (1) day per week, based on eligibility, departmental needs, and supervisor approval. The hybrid work schedule is subject to change at any time to five (5) days in-person work.